Guidelines for iOS App Purchases

The use of mobile devices in support of student learning can be powerful. There are thousands of apps and Web services available for iOS devices, and the list of educational apps grows daily. Rather than apps for rote learning or memorization of discrete sets of information, we believe that the best apps for the district to invest in and provide are those that serve the general cause of productivity for learning. The apps that are provided for use on student iPads as part of the Learning Technology Plan (LTP) are best described as educational productivity and creativity apps, tools to help students investigate, communicate, collaborate, create, model, and explore concepts and content in authentic contexts.

District provided apps

A base set of productivity and creativity apps will be provided on each iPad. These apps support active investigation of content, including modeling concepts, communicating ideas, and exploring problems through authentic uses of the tools of learning. A list of the district provided apps can be found here.

In alignment with Board policy IJK, educational apps in addition to the list above should be approved by a principal or their designee(s) before being installed on district devices. The following selection criteria will be used in determining the educational value of an app.

Content in app is linked to evidence outcomes identified in district unit plans

Information presented is accurate and free from errors or bias

Content and delivery methods do not promote violence or stereotypes

The content, features, and functionality of the app are age-appropriate

Apps that are primarily for practice and/or reinforcement are adaptable to skill level and provide relevant feedback

iOS accessibility features are available

Please note: Paid apps will require the purchase of a license for each device.App purchases for multiple devices is done through the VPP portal. The cost of purchasing these apps is the responsibility of the school, department, or individual user. At this time, DTS does not provide funds for app purchasing beyond those listed on the provided app list.